HomeNews News Center Vulcanization Molding Machine

Vulcanization Molding Machine

2025-06-14

Vulcanization Molding Machine: Features, Applications, and Maintenance

What is a Vulcanization Molding Machine?

A vulcanization molding machine is a specialized industrial equipment designed to process rubber or elastomeric materials through the vulcanization process. Vulcanization involves heating raw rubber with sulfur or other curatives under pressure to improve its elasticity, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals. These machines are critical in manufacturing rubber products with precise dimensions and mechanical properties.

Key Features with Technical Specifications

  • Heating System: Typically uses electric heating plates with temperature control accuracy of ±1°C, operating range of 20°C to 200°C.

  • Pressure Capacity: Hydraulic systems generate clamping forces ranging from 50 tons to 2000 tons, with pressure precision of ±0.5 MPa.

  • Mold Compatibility: Accommodates multi-cavity molds with maximum platen sizes up to 2000mm × 2000mm.

  • Control System: PLC-based automation with touchscreen interfaces, programmable for up to 100 different curing profiles.

  • Energy Efficiency: Advanced models feature energy recovery systems reducing power consumption by 15-20% compared to conventional machines.

  • Cycle Time: Typical vulcanization cycles range from 30 seconds for thin products to several hours for thick rubber items.

Modern vulcanization presses achieve precision of ±0.05mm in product dimensions and can maintain temperature uniformity within ±2°C across the entire platen surface.

Application Scenarios

Vulcanization molding machines serve diverse industries requiring high-performance rubber components:

  • Automotive Industry: Production of tires (with specialized tire curing presses operating at 150-200°C and 20-30 bar pressure), vibration mounts, seals, and hoses.

  • Medical Devices: Manufacturing of silicone rubber components like stoppers, gaskets, and tubing, often requiring cleanroom-compatible machines.

  • Industrial Components: Conveyor belts, rubber rollers (typically cured at 160-180°C for 20-40 minutes depending on thickness).

  • Consumer Goods: Shoe soles (EVA vulcanization at 130-160°C), kitchenware grips, and sporting goods.

  • Electrical Industry: Cable insulation and high-voltage rubber components requiring precise vulcanization parameters.

  • Aerospace: Specialized rubber parts with strict temperature resistance requirements (-60°C to 250°C operational range).

Maintenance Procedures

Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends machine lifespan:

Daily Maintenance

  • Inspect hydraulic oil levels and check for leaks (maintain oil temperature below 60°C).

  • Clean platens and remove rubber flash using non-abrasive tools.

  • Verify temperature uniformity across heating plates using infrared thermometers.

  • Check pneumatic system filters and drain moisture traps.

Weekly Maintenance

  • Lubricate guide columns and moving parts with high-temperature grease (NLGI Grade 2).

  • Inspect and tighten electrical connections (torque to manufacturer specifications).

  • Test safety interlocks and emergency stop functions.

  • Clean cooling water channels in the heating platens (if water-cooled design).

Monthly Maintenance

  • Change hydraulic filters and analyze oil quality (viscosity should remain within ±10% of new oil rating).

  • Calibrate temperature sensors and pressure transducers.

  • Inspect heater elements for resistance drift (should be within 5% of rated value).

  • Check mold alignment with 0.02mm precision levels.

Annual Maintenance

  • Replace hydraulic oil (typical service life: 4000-6000 operating hours).

  • Rebuild hydraulic cylinders and replace worn seals.

  • Perform comprehensive electrical system inspection including insulation resistance tests (>1MΩ).

  • Verify machine frame alignment and foundation bolts.

Maintenance records should document all service activities, including pressure tests (typically performed at 1.5× operating pressure) and temperature calibration results.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Temperature Fluctuations: Check SSR operation, thermocouple connections, and heater element continuity.

  • Hydraulic System Noise: Inspect for air in the system, pump wear, or relief valve malfunctions.

  • Uneven Curing: Verify platen parallelism (should be within 0.05mm/m) and mold temperature distribution.

  • Sticking Products: Adjust mold release agents or polish mold surfaces to Ra 0.2-0.4μm finish.


Previous:

Next: Rubber Heat Press Machine